Solo Coastal Traverse on Vancouver Island
CATEGORY
End-to-End Traverse
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
Vancouver Island, BC
DATE
Aug 16, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Vancouver Island Coastal Traverse
Primary Objective: end-to-end traverse
Trip Duration: 6 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~53 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: coastal
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): ~4000 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Cape Scott Trailhead, BC to Nootka Island Trailhead, BC
- GPS coordinates: 50.7685, -128.2327 (start), 49.6811, -126.6145 (end)
- Permits: Obtain through BC Parks website for North Coast Trail and Nootka Island Trail
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DAY 1: Cape Scott Trailhead to San Josef Bay
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +300 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: North Coast Trail
- Terrain description: Forested paths with muddy sections
- Notable features or side quests: Visit San Josef Bay sea stacks
- Key water sources: Streams near the bay
- Campsite location: San Josef Bay Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bears and cougars present
- Trail tip: Stay on marked trails to avoid delicate ecosystems
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DAY 2: San Josef Bay to Nissen Bight
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +400 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: North Coast Trail
- Terrain description: Sandy beaches and rocky headlands
- Notable features or side quests: Explore tidal pools
- Key water sources: Nissen Creek
- Campsite location: Nissen Bight Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious of high tide areas
- Trail tip: Monitor tidal schedules carefully
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DAY 3: Nissen Bight to Cape Sutil
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +600 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: North Coast Trail
- Terrain description: Dense coastal forest and open headlands
- Notable features or side quests: Scenic views of the Pacific
- Key water sources: Seasonal streams
- Campsite location: Cape Sutil Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for slippery rocks
- Trail tip: Wear sturdy footwear
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DAY 4: Cape Sutil to Shuttleworth Bight
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: North Coast Trail
- Terrain description: Varied terrain with some steep sections
- Notable features or side quests: Beautiful secluded beach
- Key water sources: Streams along the trail
- Campsite location: Shuttleworth Bight Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Secure food from wildlife
- Trail tip: Pace yourself on ascents
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DAY 5: Shuttleworth Bight to Louie Bay
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +900 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: North Coast Trail
- Terrain description: Rocky shores and forested areas
- Notable features or side quests: Enjoy sunset views
- Key water sources: Louie Bay streams
- Campsite location: Louie Bay Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Avoid disturbing wildlife
- Trail tip: Start early to complete before dusk
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DAY 6: Louie Bay to Nootka Island Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +1000 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Nootka Island Trail
- Terrain description: Mixed forest and rugged coastline
- Notable features or side quests: Historical sites
- Key water sources: Nearby creeks
- Campsite location: N/A
- Wildlife or safety notes: Water crossings may be challenging
- Trail tip: Prepare for a long final day
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: San Josef Bay (sea level), Nissen Bight (sea level), Cape Sutil (sea level), Shuttleworth Bight (sea level), Louie Bay (sea level)
- Fire restrictions: Fires may be restricted; check current regulations
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear-proof containers
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Shuttleworth Bight
- Noise level or solitude factor: Generally quiet with occasional groups
- Nearest water source: Typically nearby streams or creeks
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 55-75°F in August
- Sun exposure: Sunniest on beaches, shady in forests
- Acclimatization tips: N/A, below 8,000 ft
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
List tailored to terrain and season
- Navigation tools (map, compass)
- Water filtration system
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Fire starter and matches
- Pocket knife
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Shelter system (tent, tarp)
- Insulating layers
- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)
Pro tips: Pack lightweight rain gear; use gaiters for muddy sections
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Explore additional beach areas
- Photo-worthy moments: Cape Scott Lighthouse
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Local seafood in nearby towns
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Early rise, rest at sunset
- Estimated calories burned per day: ~2500 calories
- Water needed per person: ~3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 30-35 lbs
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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
